WinterWelVaart Groningen
Atmospherically illuminated historic charter ships dock along the canals of the A-kwartier, inviting visitors on board to explore and meet the skippers. Venues across the area and several ships host live music, theater, poetry, lectures, art exhibitions, and creative workshops. Visitors can also browse market stalls offering snacks, mulled wine, and beer.
What to Expect
Historic ships, music, theater, and stalls in Groningen's A-kwartier.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
A-kwartier
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Museum aan de A
Food & Drink
Market stalls offer snacks, mulled wine (glühwein), and beer.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors interested in maritime history and local arts
Vibe
Festive and maritime
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Tips & Advice
- Go on board the ships and chat with the skippers, who are happy to tell you about their historic (sailing) ships.
- Walk the whole route along the Hoge, Lage and Kleine der A and the Pottebakkersrijge, where around twenty lit historic ships are moored.
- Stop in at Museumcafé Het Pomphuis, the A-Theater or the Akerk, where much of the music, theatre and talks programme takes place.
- Dress warmly for an evening along the quays, and stop at the market stalls for a snack, mulled wine or a beer.
- If you can't make the city weekend, WinterWelVaart also comes to Zoutkamp, Sappemeer and Delfzijl on 19 December.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's theme is Ode to Groningen: Groningers of different generations and backgrounds pay tribute to the city on board the ships and around the A-kwartier.
- New in 2026: Slochteren and Delfzijl join for the first time, with Slochteren on 12 and 13 December.
- On 19 December, WinterWelVaart also comes to the inner harbour in Zoutkamp, Werf Wolthuis shipyard in Sappemeer, and Delfzijl.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do on the ships?
About twenty lit historic ships moor along the Hoge, Lage and Kleine der A and the Pottebakkersrijge. Visitors are welcome on board, and the skippers like to tell you about their (sailing) ships. Some ships also host performances.
What kind of performances are there?
There's Groningen music, theatre, poetry, stories, choirs, lectures, exhibitions and creative workshops. Performances take place on several ships and at Museumcafé Het Pomphuis, the A-Theater and the Akerk.
Is there anything for children?
Yes, the programme includes children's theatre.
Is there food and drink?
Yes, market stalls sell snacks, mulled wine and beer.
Is there art to see?
Yes. Artists from the neighbourhood take part in the Kunstroute, an art route that runs alongside WinterWelVaart.
More Christmas Events Near Groningen
More Christmas Events near Groningen
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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